Brené with Lukas and Willie Nelson on Family, Love, and Music
Nov 17, 2021
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Willie Nelson, the legendary singer-songwriter with a remarkable seven-decade legacy, joins his son Lukas Nelson, a rising talent with his band, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real. Together, they delve into their latest album, exploring how music intertwines with faith, family, and love. They share heartfelt insights on overcoming fear, the healing power of gospel music, and the importance of kindness in tough times. Expect a delightful musical surprise at the end that will stick with you for days!
The Nelson family's new album showcases their unified musical talents, celebrating spiritual inclusivity through a blend of original and traditional gospel songs.
Willie and Lucas highlight the power of music to foster community and healing, emphasizing its role in bridging divides and encouraging positive connections.
Deep dives
A Family Musical Collaboration
The new album by Willie Nelson and his family showcases their collective musical talents, featuring both original songs and familiar hymns. The decision to create a family album instead of a purely gospel one allowed for a broader inclusion of spiritual music that resonates with various audiences. This collaborative effort highlights the contributions of family members, including sons Lucas and Micah, daughters Amy and Paula, and other longtime band members, creating a rich tapestry of sound. The album, titled The Willie Nelson Family, is seen as a celebration of family unity and shared musical heritage.
Faith and Spirituality in Music
Willie Nelson reflects on how faith was an integral part of his upbringing, emphasizing the connection between spirituality and music. The Nelson family participated in church and prayer meetings, which shaped their musical foundation and sense of community. Their music transcends traditional religious boundaries, aiming to be spiritually inclusive rather than strictly denominational, which invites a diverse audience. Willie mentions that expressing faith through music can bring people together, regardless of their specific beliefs.
The Power of Music to Bridge Divides
Both Willie and his son Lucas discuss the profound impact music has on community and connection, offering a form of collective experience that transcends political divisions. They highlight how music serves as a unifying force, allowing individuals to come together in joy and celebration, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. The conversation underlines the importance of fostering positive energy through music rather than engaging in negativity or conflict. This shared musical experience is seen as essential for healing and understanding in today's polarized world.
Navigating Fear and Trust
Fear and worry are recognized as common human emotions, with Willie and Lucas sharing insights about how to manage these feelings without allowing them to control one's actions. Willie emphasizes that while fear can be instinctual and protective, worry is often unproductive and can hinder personal growth. They encourage listeners to visualize their goals and let go of the need for control, trusting that with effort and intention, positive outcomes can be achieved. This philosophy of balancing fear and trust connects back to their artistic expression, as they seek to inspire others through their music.
In this episode, I’m talking with Lukas and Willie Nelson about their new album, The Willie Nelson Family, a collection of country gospel–flavored songs performed by the Nelson Family Band and recorded at Willie’s Pedernales Studios — where we recorded this podcast — just outside Austin. We talk about faith and family, music as church, and love — and how it’s really all tied together. We also talk about what brings us together, what keeps us apart, and what holds us back. We get some Nelson family advice — including their three family rules. And we end the episode with a surprise treat you’ll be singing all week.